Auburn gymnast wins national title

FORT WORTH, Texas – Freshman Derrian Gobourne did something no Auburn gymnast has done before Friday night. The Sarasota, Fla., product finished in a tie for first on vault with a 9.95 at the NCAA Women’s Gymnastics National Championship to win the program’s first-ever national title.

“We are so proud of Derrian,” head coach Jeff Graba said. “This meet is extremely tough to be your best at with the intense pressure and not having a team here to vocally support you. To perform at her highest in this meet says volumes about Derrian’s competitive spirit. She deserves this national recognition and we are so happy for her.”

Gobourne’s 9.95 tied a career high set on the first day of the NCAA Baton Rouge Regional two weeks ago. That score advanced Gobourne to the national meet.

“It still hasn’t hit me yet,” Gobourne said. “I can’t wait to bring this championship back to my team and can’t wait to be here next year with all of them.”

In addition, Gobourne becomes the third Tiger to earn All-America honors in the event – Julie Dwyer (2005, 2008), Caitlin Atkinson (2013). She garnered first team recognition for her finish.

The national championship meet is being held at the Fort Worth Convention Center in Fort Worth, Texas.

By Chris Parent